Alappuzha Medical Negligence Case
Discovery of Surgical Instrument
In a disturbing case of alleged medical negligence, an artery forceps was reportedly discovered inside a woman’s abdomen nearly five years after she underwent surgery at the Government Medical College Hospital in Alappuzha. The patient has accused the doctor, who has since retired, of negligence.
Investigation Ordered
Following these allegations, Kerala Health Minister Veena George has mandated a formal investigation into the incident. The patient previously had surgery to remove uterine fibroids at the hospital.
Patient’s Ongoing Discomfort
The son of the patient reported that she experienced recurring abdominal discomfort and pain, prompting multiple visits to the hospital. However, doctors allegedly failed to identify the underlying issue. It was only after consulting another physician for persistent pain that an X-ray revealed the presence of the artery forceps in her body, as reported by The Hindu.
Decision to Change Hospitals
Upon confronting the medical college hospital, the doctors agreed to perform another procedure to remove the foreign instrument. However, the family opted to transfer her to a private hospital in Ernakulam for treatment. The patient’s son further claimed that hospital authorities challenged his intention to file a medical negligence complaint and denied any offer of compensation.
Surgeon’s Response
The family has also lodged a complaint against the recently retired surgeon, alleging that repeated private consultations provided no relief. The surgeon has denied the allegations, explaining that the surgery occurred during her superannuation period, during which she was not engaged in major surgeries. She noted that the operation took place amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which added to her responsibilities.
Claims of Documentation Failures
The surgeon attributed the oversight to improper documentation and a failure by nursing staff to maintain and audit records of surgical instruments used during the procedure. She asserted that surgical devices remaining in the body typically do not cause harm for decades.
Government’s Stance
Criticizing the surgeon’s statements, Health Minister George emphasized that the doctor cannot evade responsibility. She acknowledged that while the surgeon remembers the surgery, she must also accept accountability for the procedure conducted under her supervision.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Minister George indicated that a team of government doctors will visit the private hospital where the patient is currently awaiting surgery to investigate the medical college hospital as part of their inquiry. She characterized the incident as a “clear case of criminal negligence” and suggested that a police investigation may follow. Additionally, she noted that MCH doctors are expected to refrain from treating patients privately, as they receive compensation for not doing so, which may lead to an anti-corruption probe.